One key 6-8 Rockets veteran returned to practice Monday, another was out.

While Tracy McGrady went through the full workout, forward Shane Battier sat out Monday's practice with soreness in his left foot, which caused him to miss 22 games last season.

"I took an old man day," Battier, 31, said. "It's the same issue I've been dealing with. I just wanted a day. Played eight games in 12 days. I'm old. It hasn't felt great, up and down. It's not really an issue. I'm not concerned about it."

Battier has made a 3-pointer in 26 consecutive games, the longest active streak in the NBA.

Luther Head holds the Rockets' record with a streak of 37 games. Kenny Smith had the second-longest streak - 27. Dana Barros holds the NBA record with a streak of 89 games with at least one 3-pointer.

Useful interlude

The Rockets returned to practice Monday for the first time since Nov. 9, offering a chance to work out recent rough spots, particularly late-game execution.

"It was definitely helpful to pick up on stuff we were definitely lacking, to work on things we need to work on," Trevor Ariza said. "On offense, where we don't execute right, a couple missed plays on defense, missed schemes, stuff like that."